Perth catwalk showcases stunning Aboriginal design

Aboriginal design will be front and centre when models take to the catwalk at a free runway show at the Telstra Perth Fashion Festival on Saturday (September 8).

On show will be the latest creations from West Australian resort label Kirrikin and Northern Territory brand Magpie Goose.

Kirrikin is owned by Perth-based Amanda Healy, a Koori woman from the NSW Wonnarua nation.

Magpie Goose, described as a “fashion social enterprise”, is owned by Maggie McGowan and Laura Egan and showcases textiles designed by Aboriginal artists.

Telstra Perth Fashion Festival Aboriginal ambassador Rishelle Hume, an executive with energy company Chevron, said the runway show was a chance for Aboriginal designers to showcase their talents.

“Telstra Perth Fashion Festival and the Indigenous Runway allows us to promote our culture in a positive light—a culture that is the longest living culture in the world and has been under-valued for so long,” Ms Hume said.

“Being a part of events such as this opens doors for future generations of my people to walk through with respect, dignity, and pride.”

“We want to promote positive participation by Aboriginal people in an area that is under-represented, but an important part of growth and development for particularly our women – but not limited to them.”

“The Festival also plays a part in showcasing Aboriginal art, which has long been associated with our people. We have a proud tradition of fine artists in all walks, and it is about time we displayed more of the beauty and depth of our Aboriginal culture through these events and honour it for its real worth.”

Thousands of spectators are expected to attend the show in the heart of Perth.

* Aboriginal Runway: Djurip Djenna Kooling will be held in Fashion Central, 3pm at Forrest Place in Perth on Saturday (Sept 8). The event is free.